Over the next few weeks, I will be teaching a series at the church looking at the emphasis that all the Apostles made in the New Testament; that is walking in the Spirit. Just believing in a spiritual persuasion does not mean you are walking in the Spirit. We will look at how we’ve arrived at the spiritual condition we are at presenting in the evangelical church where there at least 45,000 different denominations world-wide not to mention the thousands of independent there are that are not affiliated with a denomination.
Praying in the Spirit allows for direct communication with God often bypassing the limitations of human understanding, and lead to a deeper spiritual connection and intercession. It is also believed to empower believers over temptation and sin, enhance prayer life and provide for spiritual edification according to 1 Corinthians 14:4;
“The one who speaks in a tongue builds himself up, but the one who prophecies builds up the church (ESV).
No one who relies upon Me and not their understanding will be able to stand on the neck of the enemy and conquer him in this life. Many will stand with you as you show them how to battle against this foe, and they will teach others, and it will continue until eternity. The battles you face are not overwhelming when you have Heaven on your side. The heavenly hosts are at My beck and call, and I send them to aid you in all that I have called you to do in this life. Amen.
We have gone through incredible transitions especially over the last few years, but the Lord continues to be so faithful. I believe that the next decade will be the greatest years that we have experienced as we as a body move into the place of maturity as sons (Uios) of God (Rom 8:19). We are committed to the mandate given by our Lord from Ephesians 4:11-14.
When God breathed into Adam the “ruah” or breath of God, He gave Adam a piece of Himself which made him like God. He had fellowship and communion with God because he was one with Him. However, Adam brought death and separation by his rebellion and disobedience. God restored this relationship back into alignment through the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus.
Stand tall. Do not waver in your convictions. I am God, and there is no other, and I have called you to do My bidding on this earth. You will rise in your place and take up the mantle meant for you. Many will see and hear and put their trust in Me. Do not be afraid, for I have never left you to your own devices. I will do this work through you, and you will be blessed like never before. Your heart is to delight in Me, and I will give you what you desire most. Amen.
The term "Father of Lights" originates from the Bible, specifically in the Epistle of James, chapter 1, verse 17: *"Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows."* In this verse, it serves as a metaphor for God, emphasizing His unchanging nature and His role as the source of all blessings. The "lights" mentioned allude to celestial bodies such as the sun, moon, and stars—symbols of guidance, brilliance, and constancy.
The glory of the latter house is not found in its grandeur alone but in the meaning infused into every stone. It embodies the journey of becoming, of learning to cherish not only the victories but also the struggles that made them possible. It is a house where renewal meets vision, where the future is not a shadow of the past but a radiant bloom of possibilities.
Hope in what was assured by Me for you, My beloved, is what I am asking of you. Do not allow the enemy to steal it from you. Even though David had the promise he would be king, he battled for many years against the enemy of his person, his mind, and his promise. You did not see him give up. David strengthened himself in the Lord, and he helped those in his company to stand when everything looked lost. David heard Me and believed me. This is what I am calling you to do. Amen.
The most important attribute that both of our parents had was their constant encouragement and prayers for us to follow the Lord. I know my mom and grandmother prayed me through some tough years as I was trying to find my own way in my later teens. She never berated me for mistakes and was always there to support me. She was with me the night I rededicated my life to the Lord in the church that I would eventually become the Youth Pastor at.
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of Christian faith, and its impact reverberates through the teachings of the apostles. This miraculous event is not only a testament to God's power but also an affirmation of His promises. The resurrection serves as a definitive proof that Christ's death was not in vain; it was the ultimate sacrifice for the redemption of humanity.
Let your way be a light to others watching so they know how to navigate the troubling times ahead. You are beacons of light for the Kingdom of Light, and light exposes the darkness so that you can see the traps and the harm the enemy plans nullified. Your part in this day is important as I have invested in you My Word, My Spirit, so you can be ambassadors of life and reveal My way for others to follow. You do not need to worry about anything, for I take care of My own, and I desire that you show forth My provision, protection, and power.
The story of Paul and Silas in Acts 16 is a compelling narrative that highlights the power of praise and thanksgiving that resulted in a divine intervention and salvation to an entire household. It is the record of two devoted missionaries who, despite facing immense hardships, remained steadfast in their mission to spread the gospel. This story is not only a testament to their unwavering faith but also serves as an inspiration to believers worldwide.
More than just an understanding of Him, Jesus desires that each one of us get to know Him and dwell intimately with Him. Just like any relationship, this takes purpose and time. We must first of simplify our lives and make time for Him. Turn off the distractions and the business and make time for Him in a quiet place. Commune with Him, by worship, thanksgiving and praise and then wait for Him to talk to you. He often speaks to me in the quiet of the early morning or late at night.
Ed was a passionate lover of Jesus who continually had a burden for souls. He was also one of the finest surgeons that Frederick ever had. He learned his craft while serving in a Viet Nam mash unit during the Viet Nam war. He was known as a surgeon who followed the Holy Spirit while performing surgery. Because of that, he saved many lives in the operating theatre.
I tried and tested them just as I have you, and they were made more resilient and moldable in My hand. They were far from perfect, but they were willing vessels to be made into My way for them, My purpose for their lives. This is the only way to become My disciple. There are no shortcuts or workarounds. Let go, child, and let Me show you a more excellent way. You will enjoy the rivers in the desert and a straight and level path to walk. This will enable you to complete your journey and fulfill your purpose on the earth. I am the prize at the end and will welcome you with open arms.
Cheryl shared this last Sunday from something she heard this past week, I was so blessed by it that I wanted her to use it as our blog this week, Enjoy!
Psalm 23 and it's deep meaning! (Cheryl shared this last Sunday)
In all your ways acknowledge Me. Is that easier said than done? What does that mean exactly? Wisdom calls out to her children, who hear her voice and follow. Who is all-wise? I am calling out to My children to come and follow Me. Acknowledging Me means you hear My voice and obey. It is simple but requires death to your desires, plans, and understanding. Acknowledging Me means you place My Word filled with My character and promises above all else. You will see much fruit if you do so. Amen.
Jesus instructed us to pray that His Kingdom would come, and His will be done on earth as it is in Heaven in the “Lord’s Prayer” of Matthew 6:10. He also declared that the “Gospel of the Kingdom” would go to every nation as a testimony, Matthew 24:14.
I know you inside and out and what I have invested in you. You are ready for this work and have been since before you were born. I have planned it, and I will complete it with you. Hold fast your confession of faith, I say do not let your guard down. I am your all, and you will succeed in all I have for you to do. I will accomplish all I have decided to do and no manner of evil will stop it. You have been given faith in the future, no matter how you feel from one day to another. I placed that faith in you, and your hope is alive and well.